Latest news with #SamChadwick
Daily Mirror
10-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Picture postcard' UK village with fossil hunting and secret beach is hidden
Runswick Bay, just nine miles north of Whitby, has earned rave reviews from visitors, who have praised its "secluded" bay, "gorgeous" beach and "amazing views" - and it's easy to see why A picturesque North Yorkshire coast village has been named one of England's best-kept secrets – and it's no wonder why. The delightful Runswick Bay, tucked away just nine miles from Whitby between Sandsend and Staithes, has captivated visitors with its "secluded" bay, "gorgeous" beach, and "amazing views," as noted by York Press. Perched on the brink of the North Sea, the quaint village scored an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars on Tripadvisor and has now been highlighted by Millets as one of the nation's hidden jewels in their latest travel recommendations. Outdoor experts at Millets assembled their hidden treasures list using insights from Reddit, TikTok, and various travel features, before validating their selections with Tripadvisor ratings to showcase the cream of the crop. Millets' blog writer and adventure aficionado Sam Chadwick remarked: "In recent years, more people have uncovered the joy of being outdoors, with favourites like Mam Tor and Scafell Pike becoming increasingly popular. We've curated a list of England's hidden treasures for those seeking tranquil escapes amidst nature.", reports the Express. Runswick Bay absolutely lives up to this description. Touted on its official website as 'a picture postcard North Yorkshire coastal village, boasting a mile of secluded bay and gorgeous beach', the spot is favoured by fossil hunters, ramblers, and even those hoping to glimpse a dolphin or seal amid the surf. Its sandy shores sit along the Cleveland Way, a renowned walking route gracing the coastline. The bay is a haven for sandcastle architects and budding explorers eager to discover rockpools at low tide, while the jetty becomes a prime spot for crabbing during the high tide. "Seals, dolphins and whales have all been spotted in the waters, which are excellent for fishing, especially cod and mackerel," the travel site notes. The spot has received over 400 effusive reviews on Tripadvisor, with many reviewers highlighting the "relaxing" ambiance of the beachfront café. One happy visitor shared their experience: "We walked here from Staithes, lovely walk with amazing views (steep in places). Well worth the walk! Cafe at Runswick bay was lovely, great coffee and cakes, lovely place to sit and relax before walking back. We had our dog in tow and she was made welcome at the cafe." Another satisfied guest enthused: "Absolutely stunning! Well worth a walk along the beach and doing a bit of fossil hunting, glass spotting, shell collecting. Lovely ice cream." Commenting on their Easter weekend visit, another reviewer remarked: "We are here for easter weekend, we visited the lovely modern cafe just on the beachfront, delicious cakes and light bites and beverages. Lovely staff and plenty of seats although we imagine it will get busy. Will definitely be back as its perfectly positioned to sit eat a slice of yummy cakes and a cuppa tea while u admire the views. The beach was great so happy to see so many dogs enjoying themselves and not a poo bag in sight as mentioned previously. We found so lovely fossils so interesting." One visitor was so enchanted by the BBC's 'Villages by the Sea' that they felt compelled to see Runswick Bay for themselves. "Had to come here as Ben Robinson the archaeologist came here from his programmes 'Villages by the Sea' and he was not not wrong, beautiful houses, I found most of what he showed on his programme. Lovely walk and dog run along the beach. Fabulous, Thanks Ben." Wondering about parking at Runswick Bay? "The car park closest to the beach is chargeable throughout spring and summer, but get in quick as there are only 80 spaces. Pop the postcode TS13 5HT into your satnav and you're away. You'll pay a minimum charge of £3.00 between the months of March and October." They also mention: "In busier periods, you'll find a second car park at the top of the hill, a bit further away from the beach. With over 100 spaces and charged at £6 for 24 hours, it's well worth the trek, even just for the breathtaking views along the way." Do bear in mind that car park charges are subject to change.
Powys County Times
24-05-2025
- Powys County Times
Three Powys spots named among Wales' best 'hidden gems'
Three "breathtaking" spots in Powys have been named among the best 'hidden gems' in Wales. From Yr Ysgwrn in the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park to St Govan's Chapel in Pembrokeshire, the experts at Millets have come up with the top 10 best 'hidden gems' in Wales that are "a must see". Introducing the list, blog author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets, Sam Chadwick, said: 'In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors, with hotspots such as Wentwood Forest becoming increasingly popular. "We have compiled a list of Wales' best hidden gems, for those who want to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying the outdoors.' The largest National Parks in the UK The best 'hidden gems' in Wales The best 'hidden gems' in Wales, according to Millets, are: Yr Ysgwrn (Snowdonia) Traeth Mawr (Anglesey) Llanddwyn Island (Anglesey) Pen y Fan (Brecon Beacons) Poth Ceiriad Beach (Gwynedd) Newborough Forest (Angelesey) Four Waterfalls (Brecon Beacons) Pontcysyllte Aqueduct (Denbighshire) St. Govan's Chapel (Pembrokeshire) Gigrin Farm (Rhayader) Three 'hidden gems' in Powys among the best in Wales Pen y Fan Pen-y-Fan is one of the most famous mountains in Wales, up there with the likes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). More than 500,000 people travel to the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park every year to climb Pen-y-Fan - which stands at just under 3,000 feet tall. Despite its popularity, it has still been classed as a 'hidden gem' by Millets, and one of he amond one of the best. The iconic mountain - which is based in the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park just south of Brecon - is extremely popular amongst tourists and hikers, as is evident by its 4.8 (out of 5) rating on Tripadvisor from 1,025 reviews. One visitor, commenting about their Pen y Fan experience on Tripadvisor, said: "Breathtaking Views and a Rewarding Climb! "Hiking up Pen y Fan was an unforgettable experience! The trail is well-marked and offers a steady challenge without being too intense — perfect for most fitness levels. "We were lucky with clear skies, and the panoramic views from the summit were absolutely stunning, stretching across the Brecon Beacons. "It gets a bit windy at the top, so bring layers! A great way to connect with nature and enjoy some of Wales' best scenery. "Highly recommended for outdoor lovers!" Four Waterfalls Tucked away on the south-westerly edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is what has been described as "the best waterfall walk in the UK" - the Four Waterfalls Trail. The trail takes in the following four waterfalls: The popular trail has a 4.7 rating on Tripadvisor from 675 reviews and has been described by hikers and walkers as "epic", "stunning" and "a must see". Another person wrote: "We had a great day walking the 4 waterfalls. Each waterfall was slightly different and the last one you could walk behind. Was awesome!" While this person commented: "It was an amazing day out. The water falls are fantastic. Each one is very different.I took so many photos and videos. "I was in brilliant company and the sun was shining too. I would definitely do it again. Stunning." Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Centre Gigrin Farm is a "famous", family-run Red Kite Feeding Centre located in Rhayader. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gigrin Farm Red Kite Centre (@gigrinfarm) Hundreds if wild Red Kites are fed at the farm every day in what is described as a "truly breathtaking spectacle". Gigrin Farm rounded out the list of Wales' best 'hidden gems' in 10th place. The Red Kite Feeding Centre has a 4.7 rating on Tripadvisor from 967 reviews and has been labelled an "amazing experience". "When the Kytes arrive it takes your breath away there are so many of them. "Lovely little shop where drinks and gifts can be bought. Special shout out to Liz who was lovely and welcoming."
The Herald Scotland
24-05-2025
- The Herald Scotland
Cornwall beach named among best hidden gems in England
The list was pulled together by the outdoor clothing company Millets, who created a list based on high Tripadvisor ratings from a relatively small number of reviews. Sam Chadwick, blog author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets said: 'In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors, with hotspots like Mam Tor and Scafell Pike growing in popularity. "We have compiled a list of England's best hidden gems, for those who want to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying the outdoors.' Cornwall beach ranked among England's best hidden gems The top 10 hidden gem spots in England, according to the list from Millets, were: Porth Joke Beach, which is located not too far away from Crantock, came in second place, earning a 4.8/5 score on Tripadvisor from 153 reviews. It just missed out on first spot to Embleton Bay in Northumberland, which had an almost perfect Tripadvisor score of 4.9/5. Known locally as 'Polly Joke', Porth Joke Beach is an "archetypal Cornish bay of wild rocky outcrops" according to the Visit Cornwall website. It is located quite a walk away from any parking spot, meaning there is a bit of a trek to get to it, but it is worth it for the relative seclusion and amazing views. The north-west facing cove is owned and cared for by the National Trust, and doesn't have any amenities. It has earned plenty of rave reviews from those who have visited, with many appreciating its quiet charms. One person wrote: "Porth Joke (aka Polly Joke) Beach turned out to be our favourite beach of our holiday! It's a bit of a walk from the nearest car park, but worth it when you get there. To reach Porth Joke it is a little bit of a walk from the nearest car park (Image: Richard B/Tripadvisor) "Fabulous spacious sandy beach, dog friendly all year round, great caves, small rockpools, stunning scenery." Recommended reading: Another said: "Utterly glorious on a hot summers day. Blue, clear sea, golden sand. From late May to July, you have to pass by fields of red poppies. A truly wondrous place." A third posted: "Hidden gem (or as hidden as a Cornish beach can be). Small, quiet beach if you want to get away from the big beaches and crowds." Other Cornwall spots that featured in the top 10 were Portheras Cove, Lantic Bay and Cardinham Woods.
Daily Record
18-05-2025
- Daily Record
Scotland's best hidden gems to explore this summer and escape the crowds
As temperatures rise, Millets has revealed Scotland's best hidden gems, all being rated highly on Tripadvisor. As warmer weather draws more people into nature, outdoor experts at Millets have revealed a list of Scotland's most highly rated hidden gems, ideal for those looking to enjoy the outdoors away from the usual tourist crowds. The list includes picturesque spots like Glen Tanar, Glen Finglas, Loch Arkaig and Huisinis Beach, each earning an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor. Topping the list is Glen Tanar in Aberdeenshire, a scenic stretch within the Cairngorms National Park. Originally established as a Victorian estate in 1865, it now covers over 25,000 acres of unspoiled land. Visitors are treated to a rich natural landscape of ancient Caledonian pine forests, rivers, fertile farmland and purple-tinged heather hills, all supporting a wide range of plant and animal life. Also featured is Glen Finglas, the largest estate owned by The Woodland Trust, stretching across more than 10,000 acres in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Known for its woodlands, waterfalls and reservoirs, Glen Finglas has earned praise for being 'well managed, scrupulously clean, well signposted and looked after.' On the Isle of Harris, Huisinis Beach offers a more secluded escape. Reached via a narrow 12-mile single-track road, the beach opens up to spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The spot is a favourite for kayaking, surfing, swimming, fishing and sailing. Campervan visitors are also well accommodated with electric hook-up points available for extended stays. Sam Chadwick, blog author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets, explained why now is the perfect time to explore more remote locations: 'In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors, with hotspots like the Great Glen Way and the Isles of Skye becoming increasingly popular. "We have compiled a list of Scotland's best hidden gems, for those who want to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying the outdoors.' He added some useful tips for those heading into the wilderness: 'If you are visiting any area of the UK this summer, it is important to be prepared. "Ensuring that you pack a backpack or rucksack with enough food and water, as well as a change of clothes, is vital. It is also a good idea to pack waterproof clothing, as the UK's weather can be unpredictable. "Walkers should also wear supportive footwear when visiting sites with uneven and muddy terrain. This helps to reduce the risk of injury or of tripping over uneven footpaths. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. 'You must also leave any place you visit exactly as you found it. Take any rubbish and equipment, such as camping chairs or wind breaks, home with you and be respectful of any wildlife and other people around you.' Other locations on the list include Glen Lyon in Perth and Kinross, Sandwood Bay in Sutherland, the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, Taynish National Nature Reserve in Argyll and Bute, and the lesser-known paths of Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve in Wester Ross, all of which received high praise from visitors. Scotland's Top Hidden Gems Location Region Tripadvisor rating /5 Glen Tanar Aberdeenshire 4.9 Glen Finglas Loch Lomond & The Trossachs NP 4.9 Loch Arkaig Scottish Highlands 4.9 Huisinis Beach Isle of Harris 4.9 Glen Lyon Perth and Kinross 4.9 Sandwood Bay Sutherland 4.8 The Quiraing Isle of Skye 4.8 Taynish National Nature Reserve Argyll and Bute 4.8 Beinn Eighe NNR (lesser paths) Wester Ross 4.8
Scottish Sun
15-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Best hidden gem spot in Scotland revealed with fairy pool – but it's not on iconic island
Scroll down to see the top 10 FAIRY NICE Best hidden gem spot in Scotland revealed with fairy pool – but it's not on iconic island Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AS temperatures rise more folk head outdoors to soak up the sun and get some fresh air. And Scotland is packed full of stunning places to visit, from beautiful beaches to fantastic forests. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 The Aberdeenshire spot took first place Credit: ALAMY 5 The estate has rolling hills and beautiful purple heather Credit: ALAMY 5 It's great for wildlife spoyting too, like this hen harrier Credit: ALAMY Now the experts at Millets have revealed the top hidden gems to tick off while the lovely weather continues. Scouring data from Tripadvisor, the team pulled together the top undiscovered spots using tips from Reddit, TikTok and travel articles before checking Tripadvisor ratings to find the best ones across the country. Sam Chadwick, blog author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets, said: "In recent years, more people have discovered the benefits of spending time outdoors with hotspots like the Great Glen Way and the Isles of Skye becoming increasingly popular. "We have compiled a list of Scotland's best hidden gems, for those who want to avoid the crowds whilst enjoying the outdoors." Coming in at number one in the list is Glen Tanar. Located in Aberdeenshire, this is a picturesque glen set within the Cairngorms National Park. Established as an estate in 1865, it now stretches across more than 25,000 acres of diverse and unspoiled terrain with ancient Caledonian pine forests, rolling heather-clad hills, impressive rivers and farmland that supports a variety of plant species. There's also loads to do on the estate, including fishing, horse riding and wildlife-spotting as well as cosy cottages to stay in. And there are some beautiful walks including one to the Fairy Lochan, a romantically named pool of water where you can see damsel and dragonflies in the summer. Second on the list is Glen Finglas - the largest estate in The Woodland Trust, spanning over 10,000 acres. Visitors can see reservoirs and waterfalls as well as stunning woodlands in this Trossachs hidden gem, and have described the area as 'well managed, scrupulously clean, well signposted and looked after.' Hidden gem Scots caravan park with luxury hot tubs that's just five steps from the beach Huisinis Beach on the Isles of Harris comes in third place. Celebrated for its idyllic setting, it's nestled at the end of a 12-mile single-track road and opens out to views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a great spot for a range of outdoor activities, including surfing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and sailing. And the area also caters to campervan users, offering electric hook-up points for an extended visit. HIDDEN GEM TOP 10 HERE is the full hidden gem top 10 with TripAdvisor ratings: Glen Tanar, Aberdeenshire - 4.9 Glen Finglas, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs - 4.9 Loch Arkaig, Scottish Highlands - 4.9 Huisinis Beach, Isle of Harris - 4.9 Glen Lyon, Perth and Kinross - 4.9 Sandwood Bay, Sutherland - 4.8 The Quiraing, Isle of Skye - 4.8 Taynish National Nature Reserve, Argyll and Bute - 4.8 Beinn Eighe, Wester Ross - 4.8 Sam added: 'If you are visiting any area of the UK this summer, it is important to be prepared. "And you must also leave any place you visit exactly as you found it. Take any rubbish and equipment, such as camping chairs or wind breaks, home with you and be respectful of any wildlife and other people around you.' 5 The stunning pines at Glen Finglas Credit: ALAMY
